What is the difference between POP3 and IMAP?

Learn about the differences in POP3 and IMAP to determine which one you should use.

POP3 and IMAP are 2 different methods used to access mail from a third-party email client or software. Each method downloads email data from AOL to your device or software, however, they differ in where the emails are stored.

IMAP (Internet Messaging Access Protocol)

• Emails are stored on the server.• Sent messages are stored on the server.• Messages can be synced and accessed across multiple devices.

POP3 (Post Office Protocol)

• Emails are stored on a single device.• Sent messages are stored on a single device.• Emails can only be accessed from a single device.• If you want to keep messages on the server, make sure the setting "Keep email on server" is enabled or all messages are deleted from the server once downloaded to the app or software.